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X-ray examination of the thyroid gland is a study that refers to the methods of radiation diagnosis. With the help of x-rays, you can see the physiological changes in the gland, as well as its location. In other words, according to the results of the study, it is possible to determine the presence of pathological formations.
The technique is often used to diagnose thyroid diseases, but its main value is the ability to assess the size of the thyroid gland. An x-ray may show the presence or absence of retrosternal goiter, the presence / absence of calcifications, etc.
Who prescribes diagnostics
X-ray diagnostics of the thyroid gland is most often prescribed by an endocrinologist, and a therapist, oncologist and surgeon can also write a referral. In any case, if you experience discomfort or health problems, you should consult a doctor.
Where can research be done
This procedure can be carried out in public medical institutions, in special diagnostic centers. It is important that the facility has the necessary equipment and a competent radiographer.
When X-Rays Are Indicated
This study is prescribed extremely rarely, since today there are safer and more accurate methods. An appointment for a study can be obtained if a goiter is visualized, with violations of the esophagus or trachea.
During the procedure, you can find: metastases that remained after the removal of the cancer; the presence of hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism; define the border between the node and diffuse lesion.
It is important to understand that this type of study negatively affects all other vital organs, since the radiation exposure increases at least ten times.
Contraindications for X-ray diagnostics
The procedure is categorically contraindicated for women during pregnancy, at an early age, for people with oncological diseases, with impaired functioning of the cardiovascular system, in the presence of renal failure, with the presence of metal implants in the study area. In any case, before passing the X-ray, the diagnostician will instruct, and the doctor, before issuing a referral, determines the presence of contraindications.
How to prepare for an X-ray examination
An x-ray of the thyroid gland is usually performed without contrast, therefore, the patient does not need special preparations. The first thing to do is to completely expose the torso, remove long hair, remove all jewelry. It is recommended to refrain from iodine-containing food before undergoing the procedure. The patient is moved to a special couch. An x-ray machine is placed opposite the thyroid gland. The laboratory assistant places a special lead apron on the area of the genitourinary organs.
After carrying out all the necessary preparatory procedures, all personnel leave the room (the diagnostician works in a special booth). During the photographing period, the patient needs to hold his breath (this is reported by the laboratory assistant).
In total, the procedure takes up to 10 minutes.
X-ray diagnostics is a painless procedure, but there are some discomforts (periodic breath holding and being in a static position). Only with strict adherence to such simple rules can you get correct, reliable and clear pictures.
Explanation of results
After the procedure, the following steps are performed:
- after 30 minutes, the diagnostician gives the finished images to either the doctor or the patient;
- the doctor makes a complete analysis of the obtained images;
- a diagnosis is made (if these studies are not enough, a referral for an MRI or CT scan is issued);
- treatment is selected and an appropriate diet is prescribed.
Trying to treat the disease on your own and prescribing drug therapy for yourself is highly discouraged, so as not to aggravate the situation.
What diseases can be determined by X-ray diagnostics
Diffuse changes in the gland usually cannot be determined by palpation of the nodes, and an x-ray shows the presence of an increase in the organ over its entire area. If the nodes in the organ are palpable, the presence of a tumor formation can be assumed, and in this case it is recommended to undergo MRI diagnostics.
With the help of X-ray and contrast, it is possible to distinguish between such concepts as diffuse changes in the gland and diffuse nodular goiter.
Sometimes a disease such as retrosternal goiter develops, it can be easily visualized on x-rays.
Toxic nodular goiter is detected using iodine contrast. Iodine accumulates in the focus of the disease.
It is extremely difficult to determine cancerous changes in the thyroid gland using x-rays, which is why sonography and biopsy studies are prescribed in parallel.
Thyroid nodules can be: cystic, solid and mixed.
Cystic nodule oval or round shape with homogeneous echogenicity and clear contours. Appears through the growth of follicular tissues. Due to the even outlines, it is quite easy to visualize the node and its shape using x-rays.
A solid node is dense in structure, this variety can be seen on ultrasound diagnostics, but on x-rays it will not be possible to see its annular cavity (it has liquid contents).
It is important to note that, regardless of the radiation exposure to the body, X-ray diagnostics is the only method that can reliably determine the presence of thyroid cancer metastases.
Radio emissions for the thyroid gland are completely harmless, and all other organs during the diagnostic period are simply covered with special plates, collars and aprons.
At the slightest health problem, it is recommended to consult a doctor, because improper functioning of the thyroid gland can lead to serious consequences for the whole body.